September 1, 2012 Service: September 6, 2012 Melinda Kay (Kornoely) Cole on September 1, 2012 lost her 12 year battle with cancer at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo, MI. Throughout her fight, Mindi modeled how strong, brave and resilient an individual can be when faced with hardship and suffering. She was born on April 29, 1970 to Merlin (Dutch) Kornoely and Judith (Dykstra) Kornoely. Raised in Gaines Township; she attended Byron Center High School. She graduated in 1988 and then earned her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Grand Valley State University. She later earned a Master's degree in early childhood development from Western Michigan University. Mindi's passion and legacy was working with and educating young children. She devoted herself to early childhood education and was instrumental in developing high quality programming for young children. Mindi began her life's work as a supervisor and then director of Room to Bloom childcare in Byron Center, MI. She later took a position at Kent Regional 4C ensuring that area childcare centers met required programming regulations. Mindi then established and became the director of the Hastings Area School System Community Childcare. She worked hard to ensure that every child in her care was given a positive environment in which to thrive. Mindi will be remembered by hundreds of children and their families for her work.Mindi married Mike Cole on May 18, 2001. She is survived by her husband; son Lucas; daughter Makenna; father Merlin Kornoely; brothers David (Brenda), Dennis (Cate), Michael (Kristina) and Jason (Erin) Kornoely; mother-in-law Sharon Cole; sisters-in-law Tammy (Scott) Ewbanks, Lisa (Steve) Orchard; brother-in-law Craig (Marie) Cole; several nieces and nephews. Preceding her in and waiting for her in heaven are her mother, Judith (Dykstra) Kornoely and father-in-law, Gary Cole. Mindi was a devoted and loving wife, mother, daughter, sister and aunt. Every day of her battle with cancer was to have another day with her family. Mindi delighted in playing board games with her children and taking them on 'adventures' such as tubing, skiing or traveling. Her courageous and selfless battle will never be forgotten by those who loved her. Her passion for life and wonderful sense of humor will be missed by everyone who knew her. Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 6, 2012 from 4-6 pm at Hillside Community Church, 1440 68th St., Grand Rapids, and the service will be immediately following a 6PM at Hillside Church. Memorial contributions may be made to Gilda's Club 1806 Bridge Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 or Rose Arbor Hospice, 5473 Croyden Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49009.